Free Diving with Whale Sharks in Djibouti

Arguably the best place in the world to swim with whale sharks, Djibouti is not a well-known country, but is a gem! As well as snorkelling or free diving with whale sharks with professional wildlife photographer Joshua Barton, you’ll also enjoy a guided 4x4 safari to Lac Assal, a salt lake, 155 metres below sea level.

Safari Overview

Most people wouldn’t be able to place Djibouti on a map, let alone know it is the best place in the world for swimming with whale sharks. Djibouti is a safe haven, offering incredible marine life and fascinating landscapes, from its saline lakes to extinct volcanoes. This safari focusses on getting you out to free dive with the whale sharks during the best season to see them. Whilst we never guarantee sightings, your chances are high as this is when the whale sharks are easily found swimming parallel to the shore. Guided by Joshua Barton, a wildlife photographer who knows this area better than anyone, you’ll enjoy expert photographic advice as well! Spend a day on a safari to Lac Assal, which is a saline lake 155 metres below water and a wonderful excursion to see more of Djibouti.

What makes this trip extraordinary

Right place, right time for the best opportunity to swim and snorkel with whale sharks in the world

Guided by professional wildlife photographer Joshua Barton

Snorkelling amongst the world’s largest fish

Exploring Djibouti City and sample it’s delicious local cuisine

Head to the best place in the world for swimming with whale sharks for the ultimate underwater photography adventure.

Day by day

Arrive Djibouti

Upon arrival into Djibouti you’ll be met and driven to your hotel. At 7pm there is a pre-safari briefing with Joshua Barton where you’ll get to know more about what lies ahead over the next few days.

Days 2-4

Free diving with whale sharks

Each day you’ll wake up early and head out by boat from the pier by your hotel. It is normally around 1 – 1.5 hours into the Gulf of Tadjoura which is where the whale sharks feed on the plankton. Depending on sightings, you’ll spend around 3 – 4 hours enjoying this incredible experience. Head off to a secluded beach for a delicious lunch. After lunch, travel to some nearby coral reefs for spectacular snorkelling; a marine location very few get to venture. In the late afternoon, head back to your hotel to freshen up before going out into town for some delicious local cuisine, be it Ethiopian, Somali or Yemeni!

Day 5

Depart Djibouti

Spend the morning browsing the local shops and markets for souvenirs before you’re driven back to the international airport for your onward flight.

Trip Details

Prices

This safari is run on a small group basis with possible extensions, including a day trip to Lac Assal. Guest numbers are limited to 6 people, ensuring an exclusive experience with the whale sharks.